Engineering the Future of Flight: Launch Your Career as a Computer Engineer with the FAA
The sky is not the limit—it is merely the starting point. As aviation technology accelerates, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is at the center of a revolutionary transformation. From the development of electric aircraft to the management of complex satellite-based navigation systems, the FAA is building the future of transportation. We are currently looking for visionary Computer Engineers (0854 series) to join our nationwide team and help design, test, and maintain the systems that keep the National Airspace System (NAS) running safely and efficiently.
Job Responsibilities
As an FAA Computer Engineer, you will apply rigorous engineering principles to complex computer hardware and software systems. Your day-to-day responsibilities will vary by level but generally include:
- Design and Development: Architecting robust data management and processing systems.
- Integration: Ensuring seamless communication between hardware, firmware, and software in an integrated environment.
- Testing and Evaluation: Conducting performance evaluations for new system deployments.
- Maintenance and Modernization: Providing technical support for existing NAS communications, navigation, and surveillance equipment.
- Consulting: Serving as a technical advisor on digital hardware control and system effectiveness.
Requirements
To qualify for these professional engineering roles, you must satisfy the following baseline criteria:
- Education: A bachelor’s degree in an ABET-accredited engineering program or a combination of education/experience that proves your understanding of core engineering sciences like calculus, thermodynamics, and electrical circuits.
- Documentation: You must provide official college transcripts to verify your educational background.
- Citizenship: Only U.S. citizens are eligible for consideration.
- Experience: Candidates must demonstrate specialized experience that aligns with the specific pay band (FV-G through FV-K) they are targeting.
Pay Band Comparison Table
| Level | Target GS Equivalent | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| FV-G | GS 5/7/9 | Entry/Developmental engineering support |
| FV-H | GS 11/12 | Operational readiness and hardware/software modification |
| FV-I | GS 13 | Systems integration and data conversion equipment design |
| FV-J | GS 14 | Technical advisory and digital hardware control expertise |
| FV-K | GS 15 | Expert consultation and strategic systems engineering |
Salary Overview
The FAA offers a highly competitive compensation package. The salary range for these positions is $53,528 to $173,980 per year, depending on the specific pay band, location, and the experience level you bring to the role. FAA positions utilize the FAA Core Compensation plan, which is designed to reward expertise and professional growth.
Benefits
Beyond a competitive salary, the FAA provides a comprehensive benefits package:
- Comprehensive health insurance (FEHB).
- Retirement savings via the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Paid annual and sick leave, with potential for enhanced leave accrual for qualified new hires.
- Access to professional development and continuous training.
- Flexible work environments with many roles offering telework eligibility.
Application Tips
Applying for federal jobs can be competitive. Follow these steps to ensure you remain in the top candidate pool:
- Tailor Your Resume: Keep your resume to two pages, but be hyper-specific. Use keywords found in the announcement to describe your specialized experience.
- Include the Details: When describing your work history, always include the employer name, exact start/end dates, and the average number of hours worked per week.
- Transcripts Matter: Ensure your transcripts are uploaded before the closing date. If your education is from outside the U.S., provide a professional credential evaluation.
- The Resume Builder: Using the USAJOBS Resume Builder is the most effective way to ensure you include every data field the HR office requires.
The aviation industry is changing rapidly, and the FAA is looking for the engineers who will define the future. If you possess a strong foundation in computer engineering and a desire to contribute to a mission-driven organization, we encourage you to submit your resume to our repository today. Your next great career move might just be in the air.
Why This Public Notice For Computer Engineer (Direct Hire) Job Matters
Launch your career at the forefront of aerospace innovation with the Federal Aviation Administration as a Computer Engineer.
Public Notice For Computer Engineer (Direct Hire) Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently seeking talented Computer Engineers to join our nationwide team. This direct-hire public notice serves as a continuous resume repository, allowing us to identify top-tier talent for critical roles in the research, design, and maintenance of complex computer hardware and software systems. As an engineer with the FAA, you will contribute to the safety and efficiency of the world's most advanced aerospace infrastructure, supporting cutting-edge projects ranging from autonomous systems to state-of-the-art data management.
Requirements for Public Notice For Computer Engineer (Direct Hire)
- U.S. citizenship is mandatory.
- A bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited school, or equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates core engineering science knowledge.
- Current registration as an Engineer Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT), or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) is highly valued.
- Specific course requirements including differential/integral calculus and advanced engineering sciences (e.g., thermodynamics, electrical fields, fluid mechanics).
- Submission of college transcripts by the application closing date to verify positive education requirements.
- Ability to successfully complete a background investigation and potential drug/alcohol testing.
Preferred Qualifications for Public Notice For Computer Engineer (Direct Hire)
- Advanced graduate education (Master’s or Ph.D.) in an engineering or scientific field.
- Demonstrated experience in modernizing hardware, firmware, or software systems within a NAS (National Airspace System) environment.
- Technical expertise in data reduction hardware, software management, or systems integration for high-reliability environments.
- Proven experience as a technical consultant or advisor on complex electronic control and data processing systems.
- Expertise in evaluating the feasibility of new, state-of-the-art technologies for incorporation into existing systems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure based on the FAA Core Compensation plan.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Generous retirement programs including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Opportunities for enhanced annual leave accrual for qualified new hires.
- ✓Work-life balance with telework eligibility for many roles.
- ✓Professional development and training in advanced aerospace technologies.
💡 How to Apply Public Notice For Computer Engineer (Direct Hire) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Public Notice For Computer Engineer (Direct Hire) Job
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and highlights specific, relevant work experience.
- Register for a USAJOBS account and utilize the built-in resume builder for your submission.
- Gather your educational documentation, including official transcripts or degree evaluations for foreign education.
- Apply online directly through the provided portal.
- Complete any required online assessments to demonstrate your competencies.
- Resubmit your application if any updates are made to ensure the most recent version is evaluated.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific: Align your resume descriptions directly with the 'Specialized Experience' requirements listed for your desired pay band.
- Use the Resume Builder: This ensures all required data fields, such as hours worked per week and specific dates of employment, are included.
- Check your status: Monitor your USAJOBS account regularly for updates on your application status.
- Don't wait: Submit all required transcripts before the closing date, as late or missing documents will result in disqualification.
- Focus on accomplishments: Quantify your impact in previous roles whenever possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a specific, single vacancy?
No, this is a public notice used as a resume repository. The FAA uses this to fill multiple similar positions over time.
What is the 'Positive Education Requirement'?
This means your degree must meet specific ABET-accreditation standards or include a specific number of credits in core engineering sciences, and you must provide transcripts for verification.
Are federal employees required to submit transcripts?
Yes, unless you are currently holding an 0800 engineering series position with the FAA, you must submit transcripts to confirm your qualifications.
What if I have foreign education credentials?
*A: Foreign education must be evaluated by a recognized private organization to determine its equivalence to a U.S. degree. This evaluation must be included with your application.*
Is this position remote?
*A: While some roles may allow for telework, this is not a fully remote position. Duty locations vary across the country, and specific flexibility depends on the hiring unit.*
Can I apply if I am not a veteran?
*A: Yes. This is a public notice announcement, and all qualified U.S. citizens are encouraged to apply regardless of veteran status.*
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The Federal Aviation Administration is a diverse agency within the Department of Transportation, employing over 45,000 professionals across 130 occupations. We oversee everything from air traffic control and aviation safety to the research and development of emerging aerospace technologies. Joining the FAA means becoming part of a mission-critical team where your engineering work directly impacts the safety of millions of travelers every day.